Start your day by visiting the renowned White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) designed by Chalermchai Kositpipat. The temple signifies the purity of Buddha's wisdom and welcomes tourists to seek knowledge and truth. Walk around and snap some Instagram-worthy pictures in the white gate, which symbolizes the Seven Steps to Freedom or stop by the Gallery House to admire Chalermchai's artwork that reflects the culture and tradition of Thailand.
Today, dedicate your time to a noble cause and volunteer for the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand near the city center of Chiang Mai. The foundation is a rescue credit for animals that have been maltreated, neglected, or are domesticated or wild. Take part in a program where you can clean, feed, or care for the animals or abet in other daily actions the foundation runs.
On your third day, take the opportunity to learn about hill tribes in Chiang Rai's mountains. Be fascinated by their way of life, traditions, and unique cultural practices that have been passed down for generations. Meet the friendly tribal people who earned their livelihood through local markets selling handicrafts or by working in rice fields or besides elephants. Do note a tour guide is required to visit the Hill Tribes.
Chiang Rai city center is the central point for most tourist destinations. If you plan to visit nearby locations like the White temple, transportation schedules can be checked for Songteaw or Tuk-tuk drivers. If you're going to explore the Hill tribes, opt to rent a car, or hire a tour guide who can arrange transportation for you. However many volunteers prefer to use their public transport where possible.
If you have more time, head over to the Golden Triangle near the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos. It's an intersection of three countries where the Mekong River and Ruak River meet. Various tour guides offer a day tour from Chiang Rai to witness riverside village life, a museum, or explore by boat. If you have less time, visiting the White Temple, volunteering with Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand, or exploring local markets in the city center will still provide you a memorable experience of Chiang Rai's rich culture.
Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI) is the main airport serving the city, approximately 8 km from the city center. The airport is the second busiest in Northern Thailand, catering to domestic and international flights with carriers like AirAsia, Thai Smile, and China Eastern Airlines.